Additional menu

Best Kayak Trailer For 2018 – Ultimate Buying Guide

Are you looking for a Kayak trailer that fit your needs. Here are the 6 best kayak trailer we picked by analsying different factors like cars, multiple carrier, and sturdy level.

Bringing out your cash to purchase a kayak is not all that matters. Yes, it would be fun. However, after all said and done, the matter of conveying it surfaces.

If you don’t have a car that has a kayak roof rack to transport and keep your piece safe, the experience can be frustrating and bottom line unsuccessful.

Even if you have a car that has a rack and can move your yak to your desired location, there is the issue of size. It might not be able to carry the number of Kayaks you own.

If you own a it is a tandem kayak that you possess, then the need for a kayak trailer becomes even more necessary. Most of these items come with much weight and length. Hence, there is a huge likeability that it won’t fit into your car.

So, what do we do to overcome this obstacle? Simple, we find the best kayak trailer for the vehicle we own, the number of kayaks involved, and our means of transportation.

The 6 Best Kayak and Canoe Trailers Review

If you are out for the best kayak trailer for cars to handle up to 4 single Kayaks, this MicroSport won’t disappoint you.

Malone Racks has given this product a sturdy and durable design. It comes with four racks equipped to hold onto your kayak while you drive.

The skeleton is of steel material and can carry up to 350lbs. That gives you a handful of possibilities. With it, you can convey your bikes also or cargo boxes and gears.

The Auto MicroSport has a galvanized finish. What that means for us is that it doesn’t rust or has a longer resistance to rust. Hence, you can use this for years without having rust issues.

Pros

It has a solid built. The first thing we checked is how sturdy it is. It can take up the loads you throw at it and move steadily behind your car, golf, or motorcycle.

It has a shiny galvanized finish on all its steel frame, including the wheels.

The Auto MicroSport also comes with a spare tire and rust resisting wheel which is superb! Imagine running into a wheel issue without a spare on your way to the closest water site or back. It can turn into a headache.

With or without a kayak on the saddle, this machine runs steadily and handles speed well. Also, the assembling manual is straightforward and detailed. It makes coupling this trailer quick.

It is one of the best trailer for bikes. You can place four of 17-18″ tall kayaks or canoes on this thing without an issue. There is a Kayak trailer kit instruction for each item. Furthermore, the tongue is strong enough to balance the weight of my kayaks and run smoothly.

Cons

In the description on Amazon, it is said to have the ability to carry 19″ Kayaks conveniently. However, in reality, for that to happen, you need to purchase a kayak trailer, tongue extension kit

Another thing to frown about is the ground cord. The wire is too short for all vehicles. However, if you own an automobile that its connection is on the hitch receiver or dangling, you do not need to worry. The problem is that it isn’t the same for all cars.

Also, fixing the coupler may take some time and adjustment from your end.

The back bar isn’t as stable as the one at the front. Hence, it isn’t safe to load cargo on the rear.

Malone Xtralight is a relatively affordable Kayak trailer compared to MicroSport Malone. As the name suggests, it has a more distributed weight of 250 pounds. That ensures that you can disconnect it from your automobile before taking it into the garage. So, with the Xtralight you don’t have to master the art of rewinding with a trailer at your tail.

This Kayak is one of the best double kayak trailer system out there for your car. With it, you can sit most sizes of kayaks and canoes, comfortably. Even an 11” Hobie can enter perfectly. The only thing is that you will need to stretch the carrier to its limit because this is a wide yak we are talking about.

Malone created each part of this machine up to the American standard and assembled it there. So, that means it will be sticking with you for a while. However, the weight it can carry is around 275lb max.

Like other kayak trailers on this list, this Malone Xtralight owns an instruction manual for each kit. That will aid you to assemble the item like a pro within a day.

What To Like About The Malone Xtralight Trailer

The first thing to like about this Kayak is the bright design. The color combo makes it something you will be proud of showcasing on the way and around your desired beach.

It can tolerate up to 60 mph. That’s great because unless you are running on the high way or into fast and furious, I don’t see the hurry.

It can comfortably carry two Hobie 11” kayaks. That is impressive for this trailer. Why? Because its dimension is 134 x 58 x 25 inches. So, on a normal day, without its Malone’s V-style stretchable bottom-down rack system, it might be an impossible feat.

Another thing that will delight you regarding this trailer is its tongue. It has a 2-piece extended and reinforced tongue. With that, you can carry any kayak size on this thing within the weight capacity. Our estimate is 16 to 17 as the max single yak this trailer can hold.

Finally, Malone has built this machine with a galvanized steel. This feature surely provides you with the rest of mind in regards to how durable the metal frame can last.

Things To Dislike About This Trailer

Despite that the firm said the manual is detailed, in reality, it isn’t as should. Some parts are missing like the U-shaped handle. Definitely, there is room for improvement in this regard. It consumes more hours than the Malone said it would in the assemblage. Check the description; you find them saying it will take you 2 to three hours. However, for a lone person, it takes close to 6 hours in the coupling, and that depends on your speed.

It isn’t the best kayak trailer for bikes. Because of its rack system, it can’t be the best for your bikes. So, if you have one and might want to carry it on the rack someday, you might need another trailer.

The Right-On trailer is one of the best kayak trailers for cargo boxes alongside kayaks and your gears. You can already see that in the flexible carrier system and fastener. With the build, you can easily adjust the carrier to fit a cargo box or bike. Hence, it is a highly flexible and simple trailer to consider.

Long Chih firm didn’t leave this one at the risk of rust. The Ruff Sports Trailer has an excellent galvanized finish. You can literally submerge thus in salt water and retrieve it with lesser worry.

What To Like About The Ruff Sports Kayak Trailer

Its racking system is the first giveaway. It improves flexibility. Because of how it is easily adjustable, you can carry about 5 to 6 Kayaks on this! Literary.

It is one of the best kayak trailer for bikes. Once again, because of its design, you can use it to convey more than one bikes from your home to the beach or your favorite race track.

It is solid. Yes, even when on high speed. The trailer is durable and has a crossbar that extends up to 64″ wide. Imagine the possible things you can convey on this thing. The Ruff-Sport also has excellent shock springs that can handle the road vibration.

Another attractive feature to like about it is the fact that it lives to its name. True. DOT has approved this trailer for freeway roads. It can handle any speed you throw at it. That really helps keeps your mind rested when having to take a quick, life-saving decision.

Finally, Ruff-Sport can carry a 17″ long kayak without any issue.

What To Dislike About This Machine

The manual is frustrating and misleading. You can get things fixed wrongly with this Manuel. Hence, to be safe, you have to set it through the guidance of a YouTube video.

It takes more than 6 hours to fix. That depends if you are a pro or not. If you aren’t, you could be seeing 8 hours of coupling without guidance.

Some of the drill holes have poor craftsmanship. So, you might have to get your hands dirtier.

It involves some hitting and measurement system on standby to overcome any hiccups that surfaces.

This is another impressively lightweight trailer like the Malone at 210 pounds. Long Chih firm has tried with this one and here is why:

The Multi-Sport comes in a splashy sports design. It owns a double rack feature which at one point is wise. With it, there are more things for you to include on the bottom rack and top rack.

You can hang your bike at the top side while a kayak sits in the same place and another below. That will make an exciting find for you if you are looking for the best kayak for cars that can handle up to four to six yaks at a time.

Its crossbar has a round bar, and the tongue is an easy flip-up designed piece. Also, the metal is coated to prevent rust.

What To Like About Thus Trailer

It has a splashy look which will boost your emotions positively when taking it out for a spin or to your location.

The two rack, bunk kind of setting provides space for more kayaks and bicycles on the go. With the crossbar being extendable up to 64″ wide, you can place many gears on this thing!

The tongue is long enough to allow 18-19″ kayak to sit comfortably on it. That means you have more option on what you could place on this thing without difficult.

Another thing to love about this machine is how it handles speed while holding loaded or empty.

The trailer also gives a whole lot of option on how many kayaks, canoe, and bikes you can place on it at a go. That makes it the most convenient and flexible Kayak carrier on this list, so far.

The instruction manual is okay to understand. You might need patients over your ecstatic state to get everything right.

Finally, this one takes only 5 hours to fix. That’s the same thing the manual says, and that’s good! However, it can take more if you don’t place out all the components first or work with others.

What To Don’t Like About This Trailer

For some people, the screws don’t come complete. So, to be on the safe side, the moment yours arrives, go through the contents to ensure they are all there.

The metal has a rust resistance coat. That means it will begin to rust if you scratch it off.

You will need a washer for the screws to ensure it doesn’t scratch off the metal finishing.

Having two racks might mean a whole lot of good, but it introduces a limited position for the lower rack. That depends on how many kayaks or gear you have, their sizes, and weight.

So, we have talked about different kinds of kayak trailer that we can attach to our automobiles. Now, let’s look at one of the best kayak trailer dollies.

Do you have one kayak and you want to be able to walk with it because your destination isn’t far? Such peculiar situations can storm you at any moment. The time may arise when there isn’t much need for a car conveying your yak. At such moment, trailers like this come in handy.

T-MotorSports thought of this too. Hence, the TMS Kayak dolly is an answer to consider when such needs rise.

You should know that this kayak trailer is a one yak carrier. There isn’t one for two. So, if you have more than one, you should be considering the others I have listed.

T-MotorSports gave this one a steel metal frame to handle the weight of an extended number of kayaks. Yes, you can have your 19 ft long kayak on this thing! As small and compact as it looks, this piece of art is a beast!

It is also lightweight at 9.2 pounds which is within the reasonable range. For something you are probably going to drag most of the time like a trolley, you need it to be featherweight as possible without sacrificing performance.

Since this is like a foldable seat kayak trailer, it doesn’t have the balance to counter the weight of anything extending five feet from it. To assist with that, there is a 12-ft extendable tie-down strap to keep the yak or canoe solidly fixed to this machine.

Things To Love About This Dolly

First, there is the possibility it brings. With this trailer, you don’t have to use your car always to get the yak from one location to another, especially when the place is close and is just one yak. Also, it helps to save more on gas.

The big tires allow it to move quickly and smoothly in both sandy areas, rough places, and leveled surfaces. That strikes off the scare of having to show herculean muscles in transporting your yak across sandy places.

Another merit of this product is that you can use it to carry any size of Kayak. Yes, you heard me! Even those as wide as 34 inches

Assembling this piece is like carrying out your morning routine. It is very quick and easy. You might not need the instruction manual to get it fixed. That helps a lot if you are someone who doesn’t like complex components.

The TMS Kayak is also useful when climbing hills. Superb! You can convey 44 pounds yak across a hill without much sweat. That’s saying something.

What To Dislike About The TMS Kayak Dolly

The tire rim is plastic and can get broken anytime. Though for some people it can last for a year or more. However, it will be wise of you to purchase a spare.

The strap can be difficult to set for the right tightness around your canoe or yak. It can also become insufficient to keep your kayak safe. The best practice will be to purchase an adjustable bungee cord to add to the strap.

The reason this product goes with the name Base trailer might be a mystery, but here we go again with another product from Malone Racks.

On the outward appearance, this model looks like its sister, the Xtralight. The difference being the carrier style, only.

The Base Trailer has a steel frame of galvanized finish. That means you can expect to use this carrier in salty water without worrying about rust.

It has a balanced weight, around 192 pounds, which allows you to convey it into the garage while pulling, easily. It also makes it stable when running along with your car at any speed.

Although it looks like it can’t hold much, this machine can carry two of any Kayak or canoe within 28″ wide, comfortably. That’s because its Eaglewings saddle can stretch to that limit. So, if your kayak is within such width range, you have nothing to worry about.

What To Like About The Malone Sports Base Trailer

It is sturdy. Haven a metal frame of such weight and 60″ wide crossbar, it has the balance needed to counter any weight you throw at it.

It is one of the best kayak trailer for cargo boxes. Yap, with a 28″ extendible Eaglewing saddle strap, you have many options on what you can place on it. That becomes helpful to you when there isn’t any room in the trunk of your car.

Although this model can only convey two kayaks, it is a plus that it has an ample amount of room for 18′ long yaks. So, whether you have such a long kayak or not, it can be a time and money saver for you or your friend when a longer yak is involved.

One interesting thing about Malone rack products is their manual. Very detailed with clear images. This one isn’t different. With the instruction guide of this product, you can have it ready within 3 hours! That’s a record for their models.

There is a spare tire for you in this product! So, in any chance the wheels suffer, you can have the spare fixed and back on your route in no time.

As stressed earlier, the galvanized finishing means you don’t have to bother about salt water. It also means you don’t need to spend extra in coating the piece.

Things Not To Like About This Model

It doesn’t come with a spare tire lock. Imagine how troublesome it can become when driving and the spare can’t remain in its position. You have to purchase a lock.

The tax issues can be a headache. You have to be specific when calling for the invoice or you are in for a long, avoidable, ride.

The Ultimate Buying Guide For Your Best Trailer

Now that we have taken you through our review of the best six kayak trailer out there let’s look at the strategic steps you need. It will help you to always realize the best for you in the long term.

1. Types Of Kayak

The first thing to consider when you want to purchase a kayak carrier is to know the kind. There are different categories of kayak trailers.

If you have one kayak or canoe and don’t have the thought of purchasing more than one, a single kayak trailer is what you need. This kind of kayak carriers usually have an aluminum build which ensures it has a lesser weight. The rubberized suspension prevents it from bouncing while you are on the road.

Furthermore, if the kayak or boat you have are two and you don’t think you will need a bigger space, then a double kayak trailer is what you need. Even if what you have is one canoe and you want to have a slot for friends or unprecedented occurrence, it can be the best call for you.

You can also decide to go for a mini-kayak trailer. Yes, there are mini-kayak carriers. This kind of cart is the perfect one for your short distance movement. Perhaps you want to go on a walk to a nearby place. A mini-kayak trailer is lightweight. You can attach it to your bicycle, making it the best kayak trailer for bikes. Also, it is easy to assemble.

Another type of kayak trailer you might want to consider is the four kayaks carrier and above. They are on the weight side, balanced, made of galvanized steel, most of the time.

This kind of cart becomes useful if you have friends that might want to go camping with you or water sport. With this type of carrier, you can convey all these yaks, quickly.

2. Your Kayak Number

Another deciding factor for you should be the number of kayaks you own, not the kind of trailer you like alone. We know that the yaks are what we are buying the carries for. Hence, it is essential you buy the one that can accommodate them all without stressing the kayak trailer beyond its weight limit.

3. Type Of Kayak

There are various kinds of yaks out there in the market. Which one do you need or have? Single, tandem, or oceanic. Depending on the type of kayak you own or want to purchase, you need to select the trailer that can accommodate the size and length.

4. Other Accessories

Will you need to place a bicycle on it while riding? A gear bag or box? Paddleboards or canoe? You should consider these things. The perfect trailer for you is the one that can house your yaks and have room for some more without going beyond its capacity.

5. The weight of all your contents

Like we have been hammering in this guide, it is important you don’t stretch the weight capacity of your trailer. It can break down. So, the best thing to do is have an estimate of the total weight of your accessories and yak. Then purchase the kayak trailer that will fit that specs.

While finding out the total weight, you should consider the weight your car can pull. Why? Because in the end, it depends on if your automobile can drag what you have attached to it. If you don’t do this, you are in for a bumpy, frustrating reality.

6. What Are The Materials Used

Another thing to check is the items the company used to create the trailer. Is it durable? Balanced? Able to handle the weight you throw on it? Is it of Marine-grade steel or highly capable alternatives? You don’t want to purchase your new kayak trailer only to have it break down the moment you take it out for your first spin or first few drives.

You can always check the online descriptions and reviews. Keep an eye on reports that have followed up the product for more than six months to a year. What they have to say are most times accurate for the model.

7. The Wheels

How well can the wheels handle dirt, bumpy tracks, asphalt roads, and speed? Is it big enough and of good materials?

8. How Much Are You Willing To Spend?

Kayak trailers have grades and price difference. The ultimate deciding factor is the money you have set aside for the purchase. Always look out for the best for the amount you have.

Frequently Asked Question

Whats A Kayak Trailer?

While this might be a funny question for those who are in the know, it isn’t for the newbies. So, what’s a kayak trailer?

They are trailers with a specific design to efficiently accommodate kayaks and canoes for their transportation to various locations. Usually, their build is of galvanized steel or marine-grade to keep away the rust. Why? These trailers tend to come in contact with salt water due to the purpose of their design.

What kind of car do I need to pull the trailer?

Any car with a tow hitch. However, what you should keep an eye out for is car power. Does the car have enough power to pull the trailer? You don’t want to have to resell the carrier or purchase a new car because of not considering this in the first place.

Can I handle coupling a trailer alone or how many people do I need?

The more hands you have, the faster. However, anyone should be able to couple a kayak carrier by following the instruction. Some yak trailers are easy to couple and will take 2-3 hours, depending on how many hands and approach.

Can I Load The Kayak Alone On The Trailer?

Yes, but it all depends on you and the weight of the Kayak you own.

Conclusion

Kayaks are fun products to explore water in ways that are more personal and thrilling. The trailers help us get our groove on. However, it is essential that you put this guide into practice. While at it, check in with your state regulations to know what you should do and not do when you have your trailer attached to your car, hands, bikes and in the road.